Equine esophagotomy
Case report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v19n12e1885Keywords:
Esophageal obstruction, esophagotomy, horse, suture dehiscenceAbstract
Esophageal obstruction represents a prevalent clinical emergency in horses, frequently associated with feed impaction. This case report describes a male horse admitted to the Veterinary Hospital of the University Center of Jaguariúna (UniFAJ), presenting dysphagia and a reduced body condition score, as well as being unable to ingest food or water for 48 hours. Diagnostic evaluation, including cervical radiography and endoscopy, confirmed the presence of a foreign body (mango seed) located in the cervical esophagus. Given the clinical condition and the location of the obstruction, surgical intervention via left ventrolateral esophagotomy was chosen, as this approach allows optimal esophageal visualization. The procedure involved a cervical muscle incision, removal of the foreign body, and subsequent closure of the esophageal incision using a two-layer esophagorrhaphy technique. Postoperative management included antibiotic therapy and parenteral nutritional support. The animal was discharged at the owner’s request but later returned due to suture dehiscence. Healing by second intention was subsequently pursued. This case highlights the efficacy of ventrolateral esophagotomy for the removal of esophageal foreign bodies while emphasizing potential postoperative complications.
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